It used to be so simple. How do you boil an egg? Easy. Place large eggs (older eggs will be easier to peel) in a medium heavy saucepan. Add water to cover by 1 1/2 inches. Bring to a boil; immediately remove from heat. Cover and let stand for 10 minutes. Transfer eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool. Gently crack the eggs and peel under running water for ease.